Iron pills, also called ferrous sulfate, ferrous fumarate or ferrous gluconate pills, are used to treat or prevent a condition known as iron-deficiency anemia. Iron is used to make hemoglobin, which in turn is used to help red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. Iron-deficiency anemia occurs when the body is not producing adequate red blood cells. As described by the Mayo Clinic, this can be due to iron-poor diet, pregnancy, bleeding or other medical problem. In addition to adding more iron-rich foods to the diet, a person with iron deficiency anemia may be counseled to take supplemental iron tablets. These are available by prescription or over-the-counter.
Step 1
Prepare to take an iron pill three times a day: once in the morning, once in the afternoon and once before bed. Choose times when you will have an empty stomach, at least one hour before or two hours after eating.
Step 2
If using water, swallow the iron pill with water. Swallow the pill whole, without crushing or chewing the tablet. Next, swallow the vitamin C tablet with water.
Step 3
If using orange juice, swallow the iron pill with orange juice. Swallow the pill whole, without crushing or chewing the tablet. Then finish the glass of orange juice.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult your physician to determine your ideal dose of iron, which can be adjusted as needed. Ferrous sulfate often causes dark stools. Note that this is a harmless side effect. Be aware that ferrous sulfate can cause constipation, so your doctor may recommend taking a stool softener. The reason behind taking iron with either a glass of orange juice or a vitamin C tablet is that vitamin C will enhance the absorption of the iron. Conversely, milk, caffeine, antacids and calcium supplements are known to decrease the absorption of iron, so it is best to avoid taking these at the same time as the iron supplement.
- Report serious side effects to your doctor. Consult your physician if you are pregnant, breast feeding or planning to become pregnant while taking this supplement.
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